Baked Salmon with Garlic and Lemon Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s simple, flavorful, and sure to impress, this Baked Salmon with Garlic and Lemon Recipe is exactly what you need. I absolutely love how the bright lemon pairs with the savory garlic and spices to create a salmon that’s juicy, tender, and bursting with fresh flavors. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or preparing something special for guests, this recipe will become your go-to in no time—trust me, my family goes crazy for it every time!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Baked Salmon with Garlic and Lemon Recipe come together beautifully to create a dish that’s flavorful without fuss. You’ll want fresh salmon fillets that are dry and firm, plus simple pantry spices that bring out the best in the fish.

• Salmon fillets: Choose skin-on for extra flavor and to help keep the fish moist while baking.
• Onion powder: Adds a subtle sweet onion flavor without any texture.
• Garlic powder: Delivers that garlicky punch without the risk of burning fresh garlic in the oven.
• Italian seasoning: A lovely combination of herbs that complements lemon and garlic beautifully.
• Paprika: Adds both color and a gentle smoky warmth.
• Kosher salt: Essential for bringing out the full flavor of the salmon and enhancing all the spices.
• Black pepper: Freshly ground gives a bit of heat and complexity.
• Olive oil: Keeps the salmon juicy and prevents sticking to the pan.
• Lemon juice: Bright, fresh, and tangy—this really wakes up the flavors.

Variations

I love to mix things up based on what we’re craving or what’s in season, and this Baked Salmon with Garlic and Lemon Recipe is perfect for that. You can personalize it to suit your taste or dietary needs with ease.

• Add fresh herbs: Sometimes, I sprinkle chopped dill or parsley on top after baking for a fresh, herbaceous touch that my family loves.
• Spice it up: When I want a little heat, I add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the spice mix—just enough to give a gentle kick.
• Swap lemon for lime: On occasion, I switch lemon juice for lime juice to bring a slightly different citrus tang that pairs beautifully with the garlic and spices.
• Make it dairy-free: This recipe is perfect as is for dairy-free eaters. If you want to add a creamy element, try topping the cooked salmon with a dollop of dairy-free pesto or avocado crema.

How to Make Baked Salmon with Garlic and Lemon Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Salmon for Maximum Flavor

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Then, give each salmon fillet a good pat with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step might seem small, but trust me—dry salmon means a better texture and helps the seasoning stick. If you want an easier cleanup, line your baking sheet with parchment paper or foil, then brush it with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix and Season

In a small bowl, combine your onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. This spice blend is simple but packs a punch. Place your salmon fillets skin-side down on the baking sheet, drizzle them with lemon juice, and then evenly sprinkle the spice mix over each piece. I like to pour just enough olive oil over the fish to keep it moist without making it soggy.

Step 3: Bake and Optional Broil for Perfection

Covering your salmon loosely with foil before baking is a trick I discovered helps keep the fish tender and juicy—though you can skip this if you prefer more crisp edges. Bake the salmon for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness. The key is to check if the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F at the thickest part.

If you love a crispy top like I do, pop the salmon under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes at the end. Just keep a close eye to avoid burning. When it’s done, let the salmon rest for a few minutes to retain all those delicious juices before serving.

How to Serve Baked Salmon with Garlic and Lemon Recipe

Garnishes

I usually sprinkle a handful of fresh chopped parsley or dill over the top because it adds such a fresh, pretty pop of color and flavor. Sometimes, a few thin lemon slices placed atop the salmon right before serving make it look restaurant-ready and add an extra zing.

Side Dishes

My favorite sides with this baked salmon include roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. You’ll find that something light and fresh pairs best to balance the rich flavors of the fish.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to plate the salmon on a bed of lemon-infused quinoa or wild rice with edible flowers scattered around. It’s beautiful and makes dinner feel extra fancy without much extra work.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover baked salmon in an airtight container in the fridge, and it usually keeps well for up to 2 days. To keep the best texture, I recommend reheating it gently or enjoying it cold over a salad.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. I usually freeze for no longer than 1 month to keep flavors fresh. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, I gently warm the salmon in a low oven (around 275°F) for about 10-15 minutes to preserve moisture. Avoid microwaving if possible as that can dry it out quickly.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Baked Salmon with Garlic and Lemon Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s reliable, simple, and always hits the spot. I remember the first time I nailed this dish—it felt like a mini win in the weeknight dinner battle! I hope you give this recipe a try and make it your own. You’ll enjoy the fresh flavors and easy prep just as much as I do sharing it with you, my friend.

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